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noun

memsahib

Memsahib (noun) means a historical term for a European woman living in colonial India, used as a respectful form of address. Example: “The novel is narrated from the perspective of a memsahib in 1920s India.”

noun
1
A historical term for a European woman living in colonial India, used as a respectful form of address.
"The novel is narrated from the perspective of a memsahib in 1920s India."

How to use memsahib

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishAn old colonial-era title for a European woman in India — now mainly seen in historical or literary contexts.

When to use it

A historical term tied to British colonial India; it can carry uncomfortable colonial connotations in modern use.

Word forms

memsahibs plural

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The novel is narrated from the perspective of a _____ in 1920s India.

Etymology

A blend of "ma'am" and "sahib" (a respectful Indian term for a man of authority).

Rhymes for memsahib

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Frequently asked questions

What does “memsahib” mean?

The word “memsahib” means a historical term for a European woman living in colonial India, used as a respectful form of address. In plain terms, an old colonial-era title for a European woman in India — now mainly seen in historical or literary contexts.

How do you use “memsahib” in a sentence?

Here is “memsahib” used in a sentence: “The novel is narrated from the perspective of a memsahib in 1920s India.”

What part of speech is “memsahib”?

“Memsahib” is a noun.

What is the meaning of memsahib?

"memsahib" (noun) means a historical term for a European woman living in colonial India, used as a respectful form of address.

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